Antenna lens array for tracking multiple devices

ABSTRACT

A radio frequency antenna array uses lenses and RF elements, to provide ground-based and sky-based coverage for multiple object communication and tracking. The antenna array can include two spherical lenses, where each spherical lens has at least two associated RF elements. Each of the RF elements associated with a given lens produces an output beam with an output area. Each lens also includes a sub-controller configured to combine the output beams produced by the RF elements. The antenna includes a control mechanism configured to enable a user to move the RF elements along their respective tracks, and automatically combine, or modify the phase of, the output beams from the RF elements based on the relative positions between the RF elements. The combined beams track independent targets, such as satellites, across an area.

This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 16/740,376, filed Jan. 10, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/559,886, filed May 24, 2019, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/326,208, filed Dec. 3, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/224,636, filed Sep. 8, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/224,635, filed Oct. 10, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 9,728,860, filed Dec. 3, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/201,523 filed Aug. 5, 2015. This and all other referenced extrinsic materials are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Where a definition or use of a term in a reference that is incorporated by reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein is deemed to be controlling.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of the invention is radio frequency antenna technology.

BACKGROUND

The following description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

As the number of satellites in operation grows, and task of tracking multiple low/medium orbit satellites becomes increasingly complicated, the need for antennae with multiple satellite tracking capabilities has similarly increased. However, the existing systems taught by the prior art have several drawbacks. For example, the USEI reference teaches a single, gimballed reflector, antenna with a mechanical pedestal only capable of tracking a single satellite. Further, this teaching requires a plurality of these expensive antennas installed over a large area in order to effectively track a plurality of satellites, as the antennas require an installation at multiple hundred meter intervals to avoid inter-antenna interference. Alternative designs include conformal (e.g. hemispherical) phased array antennas, which are also relatively expensive, experience high gain loss near the horizon, have an inherent narrow bandwidth, and cannot independently track adjacent satellites with a full time downlink.

It has been proposed that using a spherical lens (e.g., a Luneburg lens, etc.) along with RF transceivers can provide better result than a traditional target tracking antenna. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,821,908 titled “Spherical Lens Antenna Having an Electronically Steerable Beam” issued to Sreenivas teaches an antenna system capable of producing independently steerable beams using a phased array antenna and a spherical lens. U.S. Pat. No. 7,605,768 titled “Multi-Beam Antenna” issued to Ebling et al. discloses a multi-beam antenna system using a spherical lens and an array of electromagnetic lens elements disposed around the surface of the lens.

However, these antenna systems are not suitable for target tracking antennae. Thus, there is still a need for effectively utilizing lens antennae in a target tracking antenna application.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems and methods in which an antenna uses an array of spherical lenses, and mechanically movable elements, to provide ground-based and sky-based coverage for multiple object communication and tracking.

In preferred embodiments the antenna includes at least two spherical lens aligned along a virtual axis, and an element assembly for each spherical lens. Each element assembly has at least one track that curves along the contour of the exterior surface of the spherical lens and along which a radio frequency (RF) element can move. The track advantageously allows the RF element to move in a direction that is parallel to the virtual axis. In some embodiments, the tracks also enable the RF elements to move in a direction that is perpendicular to the virtual axis.

Preferred antennas also include a phase shifter that is configured to adjust a phase of the signals produced by the RF elements, and a control mechanism that is connected to the phase shifter and the RF elements. The control mechanism is configured to enable a user to move the RF elements along their respective tracks, as well as automatically configure the phase shifter to modify a phase of the output signals from the elements based on the relative positions between the RF elements.

Multiple RF elements can be placed on a single track, thus allowing different RF elements on the same track to be moved independently of each other. In addition, the control mechanism can be programmed to both coordinate multiple pairs (or groups) of RF elements, and configure a phase shifter to modify a phase of the output signals transmitted from the same pair (or group) of RF elements, so that the signals would be in-phase.

Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary antenna system.

FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary control mechanism.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the front and back perspectives, respectively, of a spherical lens.

FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative antenna system having two-dimensional tracks.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate the front and back perspectives, respectively, of a spherical lens having a two-dimensional track.

FIG. 5 illustrates an antenna that pairs opposite RF elements in the same group.

FIG. 6 illustrates another antenna that pairs opposite RF elements in the same group.

FIG. 7A illustrates an antenna array with a first and a second lens, each producing output beams via their RF element.

FIG. 7B illustrates the output areas of the first and second lenses.

FIG. 8A illustrates the placement of RF elements on multiple lenses in an antenna array.

FIG. 8B illustrates the operation of output areas in various output area groupings.

FIG. 9 illustrates an antenna arrangement with a first, a second, and a third lens, each producing output beams via their RF elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Throughout the following discussion, numerous references will be made regarding servers, services, interfaces, engines, modules, clients, peers, portals, platforms, or other systems formed from computing devices. It should be appreciated that the use of such terms is deemed to represent one or more computing devices having at least one processor (e.g., ASIC, FPGA, DSP, x86, ARM, ColdFire, GPU, multi-core processors, etc.) configured to execute software instructions stored on a computer readable tangible, non-transitory medium (e.g., hard drive, solid state drive, RAM, flash, ROM, etc.). For example, a server can include one or more computers operating as a web server, database server, or other type of computer server in a manner to fulfill described roles, responsibilities, or functions. One should further appreciate the disclosed computer-based algorithms, processes, methods, or other types of instruction sets can be embodied as a computer program product comprising a non-transitory, tangible computer readable media storing the instructions that cause a processor to execute the disclosed steps. The various servers, systems, databases, or interfaces can exchange data using standardized protocols or algorithms, possibly based on HTTP, HTTPS, AES, public-private key exchanges, web service APIs, known financial transaction protocols, or other electronic information exchanging methods. Data exchanges can be conducted over a packet-switched network, a circuit-switched network, the Internet, LAN, WAN, VPN, or other type of network.

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, when a system, engine, or a module is described as configured to perform a set of functions, the meaning of “configured to” or “programmed to” is defined as one or more processors being programmed by a set of software instructions to perform the set of functions.

The following discussion provides example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term “coupled to” is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms “coupled to” and “coupled with” are used synonymously.

In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as concentration, reaction conditions, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the inventive subject matter are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the inventive subject matter are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the inventive subject matter may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set forth herein should be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commercially practical values. The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value within a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered as inclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates the contrary.

All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the inventive subject matter and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the inventive subject matter otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the inventive subject matter.

Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

In one aspect of the inventive subject matter, an antenna uses an array of spherical lens and mechanically movable elements along the surface of the spherical lens to provide cellular coverage for a small, focused geographical area. In some embodiments, the antenna includes at least two spherical lens aligned along a virtual axis. The antenna also includes an element assembly for each spherical lens. Each element assembly has at least one track that curves along the contour of the exterior surface of the spherical lens and along which a radio frequency (RF) element can move. In preferred embodiments, the track allows the RF element to move in a direction that is parallel to the virtual axis. The antenna also includes a phase shifter that is configured to adjust a phase of the signals produced by the RF elements. The antenna includes a control mechanism that is connected to the phase shifter and the RF elements. The control mechanism is configured to enable a user to move the RF elements along their respective tracks, and automatically configure the phase shifter to modify a phase of the output signals from the elements based on the relative positions between the RF elements.

FIG. 1A illustrates an antenna system 100 according to some embodiments of the inventive subject matter. In this example, the antenna system 100 includes two spherical lenses 105 and 110 that are aligned along a virtual axis 115 in a three-dimensional space. It is noted that although only two spherical lenses are shown in this example, more spherical lens can be aligned along the virtual axis 115 in the antenna system 100. A spherical lens is a lens with a surface having a shape of (or substantially having a shape of) a sphere. As defined herein, a lens with a surface that substantially conform to the shape of a sphere means at least 50% (preferably at least 80%, and even more preferably at least 90%) of the surface area conforms to the shape of a sphere. Examples of spherical lenses include a spherical-shell lens, the Luneburg lens, etc. The spherical lens can include only one layer of dielectric material, or multiple layers of dielectric material. A conventional Luneburg lens is a spherically symmetric lens that has multiple layers inside the sphere with varying indices of refraction.

The antenna system 100 also includes an element assembly 120 associated with the spherical lens 105, and an element assembly 125 associated with the spherical lens 110. Each element assembly includes at least one track. In this example, the element assembly 120 includes a track 130 while the element assembly 125 includes a track 135. As shown, each of the tracks 130 and 135 has a shape that substantially conforms to (curves along) the exterior surface of its associated spherical lens. The tracks 130 and 135 can vary in length and in dimensions. In this example, the tracks 130 and 135 are one-dimensional and oriented along the virtual axis 115. In addition, each of the tracks 130 and 135 covers less than half of a circle created by the respective spherical lens. However, it is contemplated that the tracks 130 and 135 can have different orientation (e.g., oriented in perpendicular to the virtual axis 115, etc.), can be two-dimensional (or multi-dimensional), and/or can cover smaller or larger portions of the surface areas of the spherical lenses 105 and 110 (e.g., covering a circumference of a circle created by the spherical lenses 105 and 110, covering a hemispherical area of the spherical lenses 105 and 110, etc.).

Each of the element assemblies 120 and 125 also houses at least one RF element. An RF element can include an emitter, a receiver, or a transceiver. As shown, the element assembly 120 houses an RF element 140 on the track 130, and the element assembly 125 houses an RF element 145 on the track 135. In this example, each of the element assemblies 120 and 125 only includes one RF element, but it has been contemplated that each element assembly can house multiple RF elements on one or more tracks.

In exemplary embodiments, each RF element (from RF elements 140 and 145) is configured to transmit an output signal (e.g., a radio frequency signal) in the form of a beam to the atmosphere through its corresponding spherical lens. The spherical lens allows the output RF signal to narrow so that the resultant beam can travel a farther distance. In addition, the RF elements 140 and 145 are configured to receive/detect incoming signals that have been focused by the spherical spheres 105 and 110.

Each RF element (of the RF elements 140 and 145) is physically connected to (or alternatively, communicatively coupled with) a phase shifter for modifying a phase of the output RF signal. In this example, the RF element 140 is communicatively coupled to a phase shifter 150 and the RF element 145 is communicatively coupled to a phase shifter 155. The phase shifters 150 and 155 are in turn physically connected to (or alternatively, communicatively coupled with) a control mechanism 160.

The control mechanism 160 includes a mechanical module configured to enable a user to mechanically move the RF elements 140 and 145 along the tracks 130 and 135, respectively. The interface that allows the user to move the RF elements can be a mechanical rod or other physical trigger. It is noted that the mechanical rod can have a shape such as a cylinder, a flat piece of dielectric material, or any kind of elongated shapes. In some embodiments, the control mechanism 160 also includes an electronic device having at least one processor and memory that stores software instructions, that when executed by the processor, perform the functions and features of the control mechanism 160. The electronic device of some embodiments is programmed to control the movement of the RF elements 140 and 145 along the tracks 130 and 135, respectively. The electronic device can also provides a user interface (e.g., a graphical user interface displayed on a display device, etc.) that enables the user to control the movement of the RF elements 140 and 145. The electronic device can in turn be connected to a motor that controls the mechanical module. Thus, the motor triggers the mechanical module upon receiving a signal from the electronic device.

For example, the control mechanism 160 can move the RF element 140 from position ‘a’ (indicated by dotted-line circle) to position ‘b’ (indicated by solid-line circle) along the track 130, and move the RF element 145 from position ‘c’ (indicated by dotted-line circle) to position ‘d’ (indicated by solid-line circle) along the track 135. By moving the RF elements to different positions, the antenna system 100 can dynamically change the geographical coverage area of the antenna 100. It is also contemplated that by moving multiple RF elements and arranging them in different positions, the antenna system 100 can also dynamically change the coverage size, and capacity allocated to different geographical areas. As such, the antenna system 100, via the control mechanism 160, can be programmed to configure the RF elements to provide coverage at different geographical areas and different capacity (by having more or less RF elements covering the same geographical area) depending on demands at the time.

For example, as the control mechanism 160 moves the RF elements 140 and 145 from positions ‘a’ and ‘c’ to positions ‘b’ and ‘d,’ respectively, the antenna system 100 can change the geographical coverage area to an area that is closer to the antenna system 100. It is also noted that having multiple spherical lenses with associated RF element allow the antenna system 100 to (1) provide multiple coverage areas and/or (2) increase the capacity within a coverage area. In this example, since both of the RF elements 140 and 145 associated with the spherical lenses 105 and 110 are directing resultant output signal beams at the same direction as indicated by arrows 165 and 170, the antenna system 100 effectively has double the capacity for the coverage area when compared with an antenna system having only one spherical lens with one associated RF element.

However, it is noted that in an antenna system where multiple spherical lenses are aligned with each other along a virtual axis (e.g., the virtual axis 115), when multiple RF elements are transmitting output RF signals through the multiple spherical lenses at an angle that is not perpendicular to the virtual axis along which the spherical lenses are aligned, the signals from the different RF elements will be out of phase. In this example, it is shown from the dotted lines 175-185 that the output signals transmitted by the RF elements 140 and 145 at positions ‘b’ and ‘d,’ respectively, are out of phase. Dotted lines 175-185 are virtual lines that are perpendicular to the direction of the resultant output signal beams transmitted from RF elements 140 and 145 at positions ‘b’ and ‘d,’ respectively. As such, dotted lines 175-185 indicate positions of advancement for the resultant output beams. When the output signal beams are in phase, the output signal beams should have the same progression at each of the positions 175-185. Assuming both RF elements 140 and 145 transmit the same output signal at the same time, without any phase adjustments, the output signal beams 165 and 170 would have the same phase at the time they leave the spherical lenses 105 and 110, respectively. As shown, due to the directions the beams are transmitted with respect to how the spherical lenses 105 and 110 are aligned (i.e., the orientation of the virtual axis 115), the position 175 is equivalent to the edge of the spherical lens 105 for the signal beam 165, but is equivalent to the center of the spherical lens 110 for the signal beam 170. Similarly, the position 180 is away from the edge of the spherical lens 105 for a distance ‘e’ while the position 180 is equivalent to the edge of the spherical lens 110. As such, in order to make the signal beams 165 and 170 in phase, the control mechanism 160 configures the phase shifters 150 and 155 to modify (or adjust) the phase of the output signal transmitted by either RF element 140 or 145, or both output signals transmitted by RF elements 140 and 145. In this example, the control mechanism 160 can adjust the phase of the output signal transmitted by RF element 145 by a value equivalent to the distance ‘e’ such that output signal beams 165 and 170 are in-phase.

In other embodiments, the control mechanism 160 is configured to automatically determine the phase modifications necessary to bring the output beams in-phase based on the positions of the RF elements. It is contemplated that a user can provide an input of a geographical areas to be covered by the antenna system 100 and the control mechanism 160 would automatically move the positions of the RF elements to cover the geographical areas and configure the phase shifters to ensure that the output beams from the RF elements are in phase based on the new positions of the RF elements.

FIG. 1B illustrates an example of a control mechanism 102 attached to the element assembly 103 that is associated with the spherical lens 107. The mechanical module 102 includes a housing 104, within which a rod 106 is disposed. The rod 106 has teeth 108 configured to rotate a gear 112. The gear can in turn control the movement of the RF element 109. Under this setup, a person can manually adjust the position of the RF element 109 by moving the rod 106 up and down. It has been contemplated that the rod 106 can be extended to reach other element assemblies (for example, an element assembly and spherical lens that are stacked on top of the spherical lens 107). That way, the rod can effectively control the movement of RF elements associated with more than one spherical lens.

A phase shifter can be implemented within the same mechanism 102, by making at least a portion of the rod 106 using dielectric materials. When the rod includes dielectric materials, adjust the position of the rod 106 in this manner effectively modifies the phase of an output signal transmitted by the RF element 109. It is noted that one can configure the position of the rod 106 and the gear 112 such that the position of the RF element 109 and the phase modification is in-sync. This way, one can simply provide a single input (moving the rod up or down by a distance) to adjust both the position of the RF element 109 and the phase of the output signal.

It is also contemplated that a electric device (not shown) can be connected to the end of the rod (not attached to the gear 112). The electric device can control the movement of the rod 106 based on an input electronic signal, thereby controlling the movement of the RF element 109 and the phase adjustment of the output signal. A computing device (not shown) can communicatively couple with the electric device to remotely control the RF element 109 and the phase of the output signal.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the spherical lens 105 and the element assembly 120 from different perspectives. Specifically, FIG. 2A illustrates the spherical lens 105 from a front perspective, in which the element assembly 120 (including the track 130 and the RF element 140) appear to be behind the spherical lens 105. In this figure, the signals emitting from the RF element 140 are directed outward from the page. FIG. 2B illustrates the spherical lens 105 from a back perspective, in which the element assembly 120 (including the track 130 and the RF element 140) appear to be behind the spherical lens 105. In this figure, the signals emitting from the RF element 140 are directed into the page.

FIG. 3 illustrates an antenna 300 in which the tracks associated with the spherical lens is two dimensional and each track associated with a spherical lens includes two RF elements. The antenna 300 is similar to the antenna 100 of FIG. 1. As shown, the antenna 300 has two spherical lenses 305 and 310 aligned along a virtual axis 315 in a three-dimensional space. The spherical lens 305 has an associated element assembly 320, and the spherical lens 310 has an associated element assembly 325. The element assembly 320 has a track 330, and similarly, the element assembly 325 has a track 335. The tracks 330 and 335 are two dimensional.

In addition, each of the tracks 325 and 335 includes two RF elements. As shown, the track 325 has RF elements 340 and 345, and the track 335 has RF elements 350 and 355. The two dimensional tracks 330 and 335 allows the RF elements 340-355 to move in a two dimensional field in their respective tracks. In exemplary embodiments, the antenna 300 creates groups of RF elements, where each group consists of one RF element from each element assembly. In this example, the antenna 300 has two groups of RF elements. The first group of RF elements includes the RF element 340 of the element assembly 320 and the RF element 350 of the element assembly 325. The second group of RF elements includes the RF element 345 of the element assembly 320 and the RF element 355 of the element assembly 325. The antenna 300 provides a control mechanism and phase shifter for each group of RF elements. In this example, the antenna 300 provides a control mechanism and phase shifter 360 (all in one assembly) for the first group of RF elements and a control mechanism and phase shifter 365 for the second group of RF elements. The control mechanism and phase shifters are configured to modify the positions of the RF elements within the group and to modify the phase of the output signals transmitted by the RF elements in the group such that the output signals coming out for the respective spherical lens 305 and 310 are in-phase.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrates the spherical lens 305 Figures and its element assembly 320 from different perspectives. Specifically, FIG. 4A illustrates the spherical lens 305 from a front perspective, in which the element assembly 320 (including the track 330 and the RF elements 340 and 345) appear to be behind the spherical lens 305. In this figure, the signals emitting from the RF element 340 and 345 are directed outward from the page. As shown, the RF elements 340 and 345 can move up and down (parallel to the virtual axis 315) or sideways (perpendicular to the virtual axis 315), as shown by the arrows near the RF element 340.

FIG. 4B illustrates the spherical lens 305 from a back perspective, in which the element assembly 320 (including the track 330 and the RF elements 340 and 345) appear to be behind the spherical lens 305. In this figure, the signals emitting from the RF elements 340 and 345 are directed into the page. It is contemplated that more than two RF elements can be installed in the same element assembly, and different patterns (e.g., 3×3, 4×3, 4×4, etc.) of RF element arrangements can be formed on the element assembly.

Referring back to FIG. 3, it is noted that the RF elements that are in substantially identical positions with respect to their respective spherical lens are grouped together. For example, the RF element 340 is paired with the RF element 350 because their positions relative to their respective associated spherical lenses 305 and 310 are substantially similar. Similarly, the RF element 345 is paired with the RF element 355 because their positions relative to their respective associated spherical lenses 305 and 310 are substantially similar. It is contemplated that the manner in which RF elements are paired can affect the vertical footprint of the resultant beam (also known as polarized coincident radiation pattern) generated by the RF elements. As defined herein, the vertical footprint of an RF element means the coverage area of the RF element on a dimension that is parallel to the axis along which the spherical lenses are aligned. For practical purposes, the goal is to maximize the overlapping areas (also known as the cross polarized coincident radiation patterns) of the different resultant beams generated by multiple RF elements.

As such, in another aspect of the inventive subject matter, an antenna having an array of spherical lenses pairs opposite RF elements that are associated with different spherical lenses to cover substantially overlapping geographical areas. In some embodiments, each spherical lens in the array of spherical lenses has a virtual axis that is parallel with other virtual axes associated with the other spherical lenses in the array. One of the paired RF elements is placed on one side of the virtual axis associated with a first spherical lens and the other one of the paired RF elements is placed on the opposite side of the virtual axis associated with a second spherical lens. In preferred embodiments, the antenna also includes a control mechanism programmed to configure the paired RF elements to provide output signals to and/or receive input signals from substantially overlapping geographical areas.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of such an antenna 500 of preferred embodiments. The antenna 500 includes an array of spherical lens (including spherical lenses 505 and 510) that is aligned along an axis 515. Although the antenna 500 in this example is shown to include only two spherical lenses in the array of spherical lenses, it has been contemplated that the antenna 500 can include more spherical lenses that are aligned along the axis 515 as desired.

Each spherical lens also includes an RF element arrangement axis that is parallel to one another. In this example, the spherical lens 505 has an RF element arrangement axis 540 and the spherical lens 510 has an RF element arrangement axis 545. Preferably, the RF element arrangement axes 540 and 545 are perpendicular to the virtual axis 515 along which the spherical lenses 505 and 510 are aligned, as shown in this example. However, it has been contemplated that the RF element arrangement axes can be in any orientation, as long as they are parallel with each other.

As shown, each spherical lens in the array has associated RF elements. In this example, the spherical lens 505 has two associated RF elements 520 and 525, and the spherical lens 510 has two associated RF elements 530 and 535. The RF elements associated with each spherical lens are placed along the surface of the spherical lens, on different sides of the RF element arrangement axis. As shown, the RF element 520 is placed on top of (on one side of) the RF element arrangement axis 540 and the RF element 525 is placed on the bottom of (on the other side of) the RF element arrangement axis 540. Similarly, the RF element 530 is placed on top of (on one side of) the RF element arrangement axis 545 and the RF element 525 is placed on the bottom of (on the other side of) the RF element arrangement axis 545.

The antenna 500 also includes control mechanisms 550 and 555 for coordinating groups of RF elements. As mentioned before, it has been contemplated that pairing opposite RF elements that are associated with different spherical lens (i.e., pairing RF elements that are on opposite sides of the RF element arrangement axis) provides the optimal overlapping vertical footprints. Thus, the control mechanism 550 is communicatively coupled with the RF element 520 (which is placed on top of the RF element arrangement axis 540) and the RF element 535 (which is placed on the bottom of the RF element arrangement axis 545) to coordinate the RF elements 520 and 535 to provide signal coverage of substantially the same geographical area. Similarly, the control mechanism 555 is communicatively coupled with the RF element 525 (which is placed on the bottom of the RF element arrangement axis 540) and the RF element 530 (which is placed on top of the RF element arrangement axis 545) to coordinate the RF elements 525 and 530 to provide signal coverage of substantially the same geographical area. In some embodiments, the control mechanisms 550 and 555 also include phase shifters configured to modify the phase of the signals being outputted by their associated RF elements. Thus, this embodiment has an antenna assembly that includes a control mechanism but does not include phase shifters. Without phase shifters, the design and operation of the antenna assembly is simplified, but may have signals from output antennas that are slightly out-of phase.

In addition to the requirement that the grouped RF elements have to be on different sides of the RF element arrangement axis, it is preferable that the distance between the RF elements and the RF element arrangement axis are substantially the same (less than 10%, and more preferably less than 5% deviation). Thus, in this example, the distance between the RF element 520 and the axis 540 is substantially the same as the distance between the RF element 535 and the axis 545. Similarly, the distance between the RF element 525 and the axis 540 is substantially the same as the distance between the RF element 530 and the axis 545.

While the RF elements 520-535 are shown to be placed at fixed locations in this figure, in some other embodiments, the antenna 500 can also includes tracks that enable the RF elements to move to different positions along the surface of their respective spherical lenses. In these embodiments, the control mechanisms 550 and 555 are configured to coordinate their associated RF elements and phase shifters to send out synchronized signals to a covered geographical area.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 5, the RF element arrangement axes are arranged to be perpendicular to the axis along which the spherical lenses are aligned. As mentioned above, the RF element arrangement axes can be oriented in different ways. FIG. 6 illustrates an antenna 600 having RF elements placed on different sides of RF element arrangement axes that are not perpendicular to the virtual axis along which the spherical lenses are aligned. The antenna 600 is almost identical to the antenna 500. The antenna 600 has an array of spherical lens (including spherical lenses 605 and 610) that is aligned along an axis 615. Although the antenna 600 in this example is shown to include only two spherical lenses in the array of spherical lenses, it has been contemplated that the antenna 600 can include more spherical lenses that are aligned along the axis 615 as desired.

Each spherical lens also includes an RF element arrangement axis that is parallel to one another. In this example, the spherical lens 605 has an RF element arrangement axis 640 and the spherical lens 610 has an RF element arrangement axis 645. As shown, the RF element arrangement axes 640 and 645 are not perpendicular to the virtual axis 615. By having the RF element arrangement axes in different orientations, the antenna 600 can be adjusted to cover different geographical areas (closer to the antenna, farther away from the antenna, etc.).

As shown, each spherical lens in the array has associated RF elements. In this example, the spherical lens 605 has two associated RF elements 620 and 625, and the spherical lens 610 has two associated RF elements 630 and 635. The RF elements associated with each spherical lens are placed along the surface of the spherical lens, on different sides of the RF element arrangement axis. As shown, the RF element 620 is placed on top of (on one side of) the RF element arrangement axis 640 and the RF element 625 is placed on the bottom of (on the other side of) the RF element arrangement axis 640. Similarly, the RF element 630 is placed on top of (on one side of) the RF element arrangement axis 645 and the RF element 625 is placed on the bottom of (on the other side of) the RF element arrangement axis 645.

The antenna 600 also includes control mechanisms 650 and 655 for coordinating groups of RF elements. The control mechanisms 650 and 655 are configured to pair opposite RF elements that are associated with different spherical lens (i.e., pairing RF elements that are on opposite sides of the RF element arrangement axis). Thus, the control mechanism 650 is communicatively coupled with the RF element 620 (which is placed on top of the RF element arrangement axis 640) and the RF element 635 (which is placed on the bottom of the RF element arrangement axis 645) to coordinate the RF elements 620 and 635 to provide signal coverage of substantially the same area. Similarly, the control mechanism 655 is communicatively coupled with the RF element 625 (which is placed on the bottom of the RF element arrangement axis 640) and the RF element 630 (which is placed on top of the RF element arrangement axis 645) to coordinate the RF elements 625 and 630 to provide signal coverage of substantially the same area. In exemplary embodiments, the control mechanisms 650 and 655 also include phase shifters configured to modify the phase of the signals being outputted by their associated RF elements.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate an antenna similar to FIG. 6 and output areas associated with the antenna array 700, respectively. The array 700 has multiple lenses (including spherical lenses 701 and 702). Although array 700 in this example is shown to include only two spherical lenses in the array of lenses, it is contemplated that array 700 can include three or more lenses.

Each of the lenses include at least two RF elements, and two sub-controllers. In this example, the lens 701 has RF elements 720 and 721, and lens 702 has RF elements 722 and 723. Each RF element has a sub-controller configured for phase shifting an output beam produced by the RF element. As shown, RF element 720 is coupled to sub-controller 730, RF element 721 is coupled to sub-controller 731, RF element 722 is coupled to sub-controller 732, and RF element 723 is coupled to sub-controller 733. Further, lens array 701 has two groupings of associated RF elements 720 and 722, and 721 and 723.

Each RF element generates an output beam, which is adjusted by its associated sub-controller, to produce an output area. In this example, the RF element 720 produce an output area 751, and the RF element 721 produce an output area 752. In another embodiment, RF element the RF element 722 produces an output area 751, and the RF element 723 produces an output area 752. In a preferred embodiment, Controller 740 can command the sub-controllers 730 and 732 to phase shift RF elements 720 and 722, respectively, to create an overlapped beam via constructive interference. In a related embodiment, controller 740 can command the RF elements 720 and 722 to produce or cease production of their respective output beams based on the movement of a target. The overlapped beam from RF elements 720 and 722 produces output area 760. As shown in output area grouping 750, output area 760 is narrower than output area 751, and can be phase shifted to move about within output area 751. Controller 740 can command the sub-controllers 731 and 733 to phase shift RF elements 721 and 723, respectively, to create an overlapped beam via constructive interference. The overlapped beam from RF elements 721 and 723 produces output area 761. As shown in FIG. 7B, output area 761 is narrower than output area 752, and can be phase shifted to move about within output area 752. The overlapped beams may operate simultaneously. The first and second overlapped may shift in concert or independently.

In certain configurations, lens 701 is collinear or non-collinear with lens 702. Additional antennas may be arranged in rows, coupled to antennas 701 and 702. Antenna rows may be parallel or non-parallel. In other configurations, rows of antennas may be closely packed. A “closely packed” lens arrangement may be embodied by at least two rows of lenses, clustered together such that a lens is diagonally situated from at least one other lens in the other lens row.

FIG. 8A illustrates an embodiment of the “closely packed” antenna arrangement. Antenna array 800 is similar to antenna array 700, except with additional antennas and RF elements. The array 800 has multiple lenses (including spherical lenses 701, 702, 801, and 802).

Each of the lenses include at least four RF elements, and four sub-controllers. Lens 701 has RF elements 720, 721, 816, and 817. Lens 702 has RF elements 722, 723, 814, and 815. Lens 801 has RF elements 810, 811, 812, and 813. Lens 802 has RF elements 818, 819, 820, and 821.

Each RF element generates an output beam, which can be adjusted by its associated sub-controller, to produce an output area. In preferred embodiments, each RF element has a sub-controller configured such that when two beams from individual RF elements are combined, the relative phase generated by the two sub-controllers can move the position of the resulting output area within the contour of the larger output area. In FIG. 8B, the RF element 816 produces an output area 831, the RF element 817 produces an output area 832, the RF element 721 produces an output area 751, the RF element 720 produces output area 752

In other embodiments, the RF element 812, 814, or 820 produces an output area 831, and the RF element 813, 815, or 821 produces an output area 832, the RF element 810, 723, or 818 produce an output area 751, the RF element 811, 722, or 819 produce output area 752. As shown in output area grouping 830, the output beams from RF elements 720, 722, and 819 are phase shifted to create an overlapped beam via constructive interference.

The overlapped beam from RF elements 721, 723, and 810 produces output area 850. RF elements 721, 723, and 810 can be phase shifted to track output area 850 from point A to point B. Output area 850 could be further narrowed via an additional output beam from RF element 818. Tracking output area 850 from point A to point B could be made in anticipation of a known target requiring coverage entering the output area 850.

An output area has a non-assigned state, where the output area is made as narrow or wide as necessary to provide coverage to any targets that may enter the output area. The output beams from RF elements 816 and 812 are phase shifted to create an overlapped beam via constructive interference. The overlapped beam from RF elements 816 and 812 produces output area 851. Output area 851 can be further narrowed including the output beams of at least one of RF elements 814 and 820 into the overlapped beam of RF elements 816 and 812.

An output area can also track a target. In this embodiment, output area 761 provides coverage to static targets 840 and 841. Output area 761 can be narrowed to focus on either target 840 or 841 via an overlapped output beam from RF element 811, 722, and 819. In other embodiments, an output area 852 tracks a dynamic target 842 (e.g. a satellite) across an area of sky to point C. The output beams from RF elements 817, 813, 821, and 815 are phase shifted to create an overlapped beam via constructive interference. This overlapped beam produces output area 852. Output area 852 is further phase shifted to track and provide coverage to target 842.

An output area provides an area of signal coverage in at least a portion of the sky or outer space. The dimensions of an output area can be user-inputted or autonomously generated via controller 740. Each output area can be static or dynamic. Dynamic output areas can change according to variables, such as time or environmental conditions.

FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of the “closely packed” antenna arrangement. Antenna arrangement 900 is similar to antenna array 800, except the antenna arrangement 900 is configured for tracking of dynamic targets via beam combination, rather than phase shifting. The array 900 has multiple lenses (including spherical lenses 905, 920, and 925). Although antenna arrangement 900 in this example is shown to include only three spherical lenses, it is contemplated that antenna arrangement 900 can include four or more lenses. In a preferred embodiment, at least a first lens is positioned to provide coverage for an area of sky different from the area of sky serviced by a second, different lens. In exemplary embodiments, the lenses of antenna arrangement 900 are spherical. In alternative embodiments, at least one of the lenses of antenna arrangement 900 is non-spherical.

Each of the lenses includes at least four RF elements, one sub-controller, and one receiver. Lens 905 has RF elements 906, 907, 908, and 909. Lens 920 has RF elements 921, 922, 923, and 924. Lens 925 has RF elements 926, 927, 928, and 929. Each lens has a sub-controller configured for combining a first output beam produced by first RF element with a second output beam produced by a second RF element. As shown, lens 905 is coupled to sub-controller 910, lens 925 is coupled to sub-controller 911, and lens 920 is coupled to sub-controller 912.

An output area can have a fixed position, where the output area is directed toward a single area of sky to provide coverage to any targets that may enter the output area. The output beam from RF element 907 is activated to create output area 940 in order to provide coverage for dynamic target 941 (e.g. a satellite) within output area 940. As lens 905 is spherical, the footprint of output area 940 is depicted as a circle. An output area can also track a target in between the output areas (e.g. circular footprints) generated via any single RF element. In an exemplary embodiment, RF elements 926 and 927 are activated to create combined output area 943 in order to track dynamic target 944 across an area of sky from point C in output area 945 to point D in output area 942. The output beams from RF elements 926 and 927 are combined to create a combined output area via constructive interference. The output beam from RF element 926 is activated to create output area 945, and output beam from RF element 927 is activated to create output area 942. Advantageously, a combined output area facilitates the smooth transition for tracking a satellite from the output area of a one RF element to another output area of another, different RF element.

In a related embodiment, RF elements 921, 922, and 923 are activated to create combined output area 948 in order to track dynamic target 949 as it travels in the gap between output area 946, output area 947, and output area 950. The output beams from RF elements 921, 922, and 923 are combined to create a combined output area via constructive interference. The output beam from RF element 923 is activated to create output area 946, the output beam from RF element 921 is activated to create output area 947, and the output beam from RF element 922 is activated to create output area 950.

In certain configurations, RF elements may be arranged in rows and columns, coupled to their respective lenses. RF element rows may be parallel or non-parallel. In other configurations, rows of RF elements may be closely packed. A “closely packed” RF element arrangement may be embodied by at least two rows of RF elements, clustered together such that an RF element is diagonally situated from at least one other RF element in the other RF element row. Spacing between RF elements is configured to be a dense arrangement so as to minimize gain loss in gaps between output beams.

Each dynamic target (of the dynamic targets tracked by RF elements associated with antenna arrangement 900) is assigned (or alternatively, communicatively coupled with) a receiver for communication with the dynamic target. In a preferred embodiment, controller 930 is configured for assigning a receiver to a target. Controller 930 may also reassign receivers and RF elements as a target is tracked across an output area. In exemplary embodiments, dynamic target 941 is assigned to receiver 931, dynamic target 944 is assigned to receiver 932, and dynamic target 949 is assigned to receiver 933. In exemplary embodiments, each dynamic target is assigned a single receiver. In alternative embodiments, two or more targets may be assigned to a single receiver, where the controller 930 will direct the single receiver to rapidly switch coverage between the plurality of targets. Each receiver is configured to receive from a target. In exemplary embodiments, each target is assigned a receiver. In addition, the RF elements of antenna arrangement 900 are configured to receive/detect incoming signals that have been focused by their associated lenses.

As shown, the lenses of antenna arrangement 900 are aligned along a virtual plane. In some embodiments, the virtual plane is parallel to the ground on top of which the antenna arrangement 900 is disposed. FIG. 9 shows an isometric projection of antenna arrangement 900, which depicts the array disposed above the ground. In preferred embodiments, the controller, sub-controllers, and receivers are disposed between the lenses and the ground. In alternative embodiments, at least one of the controller, sub-controllers, and receivers is aligned along the same virtual plane as the lenses of antenna arrangement 900. In yet another embodiment, at least one of the controller, sub-controllers, and receivers is aligned along a virtual plane different from that virtual plane along which the lenses of antenna arrangement 900 are aligned.

It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C . . . and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A communication system, comprising: a first lens, wherein the first lens has a first RF element oriented to produce a first output beam, and a second RF element oriented to produce a second output beam; a controller configured to combine at least the first output beam and the second output beam to produce a first combined beam, by constructive interference; wherein the controller is further configured to electronically combine at least the first and second output beams to effectively track a target with the first combined beam; a first sub-controller coupled to the controller, wherein the first sub-controller is configured to (i) receive an instruction from the controller, and (ii) electronically combine the first output beam based on the instruction; and wherein the instruction is to electronically combine the first and second output beams to position the first combined beam across a combined output area.
 2. The communication system of claim 1 wherein the first lens further comprises a third RF element oriented to produce a third output beam; wherein the controller is configured to combine at least the first output beam, the second output beam, and third output beam to produce a second combined beam, by constructive interference; wherein the controller is further configured to electronically combine at least the first output beam, the second output beam, and third output beam to effectively track a second target with the second combined beam.
 3. The communication system of claim 2, wherein the controller generates the first combined beam independently from the second combined beam.
 4. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the first lens further comprises a first receiver; wherein the first receiver is configured to communicate with at least one of the first target and the second target.
 5. The communication system of claim 4, wherein the first lens further comprises the first receiver; wherein the first receiver is configured to communicate via at least one of the first output beam, the second output beam, and the first combined beam.
 6. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the first target is a dynamic target.
 7. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the first target is a static target.
 8. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the combined output area is located in a RF coverage gap, between the output area of the first output beam and the output area of the second output beam.
 9. The communication system of claim 1 further comprising a second lens; wherein the second lens has a fourth RF element oriented to produce a fourth output beam, and a fifth RF element oriented to produce a fifth output beam; wherein the controller is configured to combine at least the fourth output beam and the fifth output beam to produce a third combined beam, by constructive interference; wherein the controller is further configured to electronically combine at least the fourth and fifth output beams to effectively track a target with the third combined beam.
 10. The communication system of claim 9 further comprising a third lens.
 11. The communication system of claim 10 wherein the third lens is collinear with first and second lenses.
 12. The communication system of claim 10 wherein the third lens is not collinear with first and second lenses.
 13. The communication system of claim 10 wherein the first lens, the second lens, and the third lens are closely packed.
 14. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the first lens is spherical.
 15. The communication system of claim 1, the first lens has a surface area that is substantially spherical. 